In Maine, a gunite pool averages $80,000, fiberglass averages $62,000, and vinyl liner pools average $51,000 — before features, decking, and site conditions. Use the free calculator below to get a personalized estimate.
Standard 500 sq ft pool, Maine labor index (112% of US average), permits included, decking/spa/features excluded.
| Pool Type | Avg Cost (Maine) | $/sqft | Build Time | Lifespan | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gunite / Shotcrete | $80,000 | $92 | 12-22 weeks | 50+ years | Fully custom shape, premium finishes |
| Fiberglass | $62,000 | $67 | 3-6 weeks | 25-30 years | Fast install, low maintenance, freeze-thaw |
| Vinyl Liner | $51,000 | $39 | 4-8 weeks | Liner 7-10 yr, frame 20+ | Lowest upfront cost, simple design |
Pricing methodology: see how we calculate these costs. Machine-readable data: /pool-cost-data.json.
Maine has a small, seasonal pool market concentrated in southern Maine (York and Cumberland counties). Labor runs above national medians, the build window is short, and glacial soils make excavation unpredictable.
Maine pool permits are issued by municipalities under the Maine Uniform Building and Energy Code. Portland, South Portland, Scarborough, Falmouth, and Kennebunk handle much of the state's pool permitting volume. Barrier rules follow ICC (48-inch fence, self-closing). Coastal communities add shoreland zoning review that can extend timelines 4–8 weeks. Permit fees typically run $1,400–$2,300.
Maine pool season is short — mid-June through early September uncovered, about 2.5–3 months. With a heater and cover, 4–5 months is achievable. Winterization is aggressive here: frost line reaches 48–60 inches in northern Maine, and Maine builders commonly use deeper pipe burial and freeze-protected equipment enclosures. Nor'easters and heavy snow loads are the main seasonal risks.
Maine sits on glacial till with frequent boulders and shallow granite or schist bedrock across most of the state. Hitting rock during pool excavation is the rule rather than the exception, and Maine pool builders commonly include $8,000–$20,000 rock contingencies on quotes. Coastal York and Cumberland counties have occasional high water tables near tidal shorelines.
Southern Maine (Greater Portland: Portland, South Portland, Scarborough, Cape Elizabeth, Falmouth, Kennebunk, York) accounts for the vast majority of the state's pool volume. Prices run 15–25% above the state median in the most affluent coastal communities. Midcoast and Bar Harbor markets support a small second-home pool industry. Central and northern Maine have minimal pool activity.
Maine pool builders include Maine Pool & Spa (Scarborough), Heritage Pools (Portland), Atlantic Pools (York County), and Coastal Pool & Spa. Anthony & Sylvan operates from adjacent New Hampshire with some Maine coverage. The region's high-end custom builds often go to Seacoast-area firms serving both Maine and New Hampshire.
Pool costs vary within Maine by metro labor market. Estimates below are for a standard 500 sq ft inground pool, permits included. Enter your ZIP in the calculator for a build-specific number.
| City | Gunite | Fiberglass | Vinyl |
|---|---|---|---|
| Portland | $83,000 | $64,000 | $53,000 |
| Lewiston | $80,000 | $62,000 | $51,000 |
| Bangor | $80,000 | $62,000 | $51,000 |
| Augusta | $80,000 | $62,000 | $51,000 |